The online source for jewelry, gemstones, rough, minerals and more

Tanzanite

In 1962 a brownish colored zoisite,  that when heat treated turned a beautiful violet-blue color, was discovered in the East African country of Tanzania.  About 1970 Tiffany & Co. began marketing this stone in the U. S. calling it tanzanite.  Since that time tanzanite has become increasingly popular.  Today it is highly prized by collectors and consumers alike.  Tanzania remains the only source of this lovely gemstone.

Tanzanite is trichroic - it can exhibit different colors when viewed from different directions.

Lore

As with many stones discovered in recent times, lore about tanzanite is scanty.  Adherents to the New Age philosophies link tanzanite with a sense of well being and composure.  It is also said to be a stone useful for meditation and relaxation.

Important Note: tanzanite should never be cleaned in an ultrasonic cleaner.

Interested in the healing properties of gems and minerals? Crystal Enlightenment by

Katrina Raphaell is considered to be one of the best references on the subject.

See what others have to say about us at our eBay feedback page.